Filming Locations and Cast Insights for Hallmark’s The Wish Swap
The Hallmark Channel is bringing a heartwarming tale to your screens with its latest movie, The Wish Swap. Premiering on Saturday, February 8, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central, this delightful film stars Emily Tennant and Jake Foy. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Maple Ridge, British Columbia, the movie promises a blend of romance, humor, and a touch of magic.
Filming Locations: A Journey Through Maple Ridge and Vancouver
Maple Ridge, British Columbia, serves as the primary filming location for The Wish Swap. This charming town, located about an hour east of Vancouver, has a rich history of hosting numerous film productions.
According to IMDb, the film was shot in various picturesque spots around Maple Ridge from November 18-20.
Key Locations in Maple Ridge
Several notable locations in Maple Ridge were featured in the movie, adding to its visual appeal:
- Chameleon Restaurant
- Witchcraft Beer Market
- 224 Street
Additionally, some scenes were filmed in Vancouver, as evidenced by Instagram posts from the cast. The combination of these locations provides a beautiful and diverse backdrop for the film.
Behind-the-Scenes: Insights from the Director and Cast
Director David I. Strasser shared his excitement about the project on social media, calling it a joy to bring to life. He expressed gratitude for working alongside executive producers Joel S. Rice, Michael Barbuto, and the team at Muse Entertainment Enterprises.
The film, brilliantly written by Betsy Morris and produced by Front Street Pictures, holds a special place in Strasser’s heart.
Cast Reactions and Memorable Moments
Emily Tennant, who plays Casey, shared a behind-the-scenes reel showcasing some of her favorite moments from filming. She particularly enjoyed working with the goats, calling them the “cutest little co-stars.”
Tennant’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable, and her performance is expected to be a highlight of the film.
The Storyline: A Magical Birthday Twist
The plot of The Wish Swap revolves around Casey and Henry, who celebrate their birthdays at the same restaurant. When they make birthday wishes simultaneously, their wishes are granted, but with a twist—they end up getting each other’s wishes.
This whimsical premise sets the stage for a series of humorous and heartfelt events as the characters navigate their swapped wishes.
Character Profiles
Emily Tennant as Casey: Tennant is known for her role as Ivy in Mr. Young and as the voice of Polly Pocket in the animated series. Her acting career began with the 2000 movie Personally Yours.
She has since appeared in various TV shows and films, including Kingdom Hospital, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and Zombie Punch, for which she won a Leo Award. Tennant has also had recurring roles in Hallmark’s Cedar Cove and The Wedding March films.
Jake Foy as Henry: Foy is best known for his roles as Tuff in Ride, King James in Reign, and Felix in Designated Survivor.
His first professional role was in High School Musical: On Stage!. Foy studied musical theatre at Sheridan College and currently resides in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Supporting Cast: Adding Depth to the Story
The supporting cast of The Wish Swap includes several talented actors who bring additional layers to the story:
- Matt Hamilton as Simon
- Nathan Witte as Spencer
- Jason Fernandes as Peter
- Molly Saunders as Charlotte
Each actor contributes to the film’s dynamic and engaging narrative, ensuring that viewers are thoroughly entertained.
The Legacy of Maple Ridge in Film
Maple Ridge has a storied history in the film industry, dating back to the 1970s when scenes from Rambo were shot there. Since then, the town has been a popular location for various movies and TV shows, including The X-Files, Smallville, Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, and Stargate SG-1.
The picturesque settings and welcoming community make it an ideal spot for filmmakers.
Hallmark’s Affinity for Maple Ridge
Hallmark has filmed numerous movies in Maple Ridge, drawn by its scenic beauty and versatile locations. The town’s charm and character perfectly align with the feel-good, romantic themes that Hallmark movies are known for. The Wish Swap is the latest addition to this tradition, and it continues to showcase the town’s appeal.
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Hallmark Movie
With its enchanting storyline, talented cast, and beautiful filming locations, The Wish Swap is set to be a memorable addition to Hallmark’s lineup.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Hallmark movies or new to their charm, this film promises to deliver a delightful viewing experience.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 8, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central, and get ready to be swept away by the magic of The Wish Swap.
